I contemplated how to begin this segment, or if to write this Marrickville guide at all. Through this constant back and forth between home, and a home that once was, it has ignited a sense of Nostalgia, appreciation, and perspective. In saying that, when you return to a bustling metropolis much like Sydney, you remain open-minded, explorative and light on the surface. 

Each time I return to Sydney, I gravitate back to the suburbs where I can regain a sense of connection (but also eat all the goddamn good food and drink all the goddamn good coffee). I often joke *though not often, so don’t get any ideas* of returning back to Sydney and what that may look like. When you remove yourself from an environment you’ve known all your life, it’s amazing what newfound perspectives and understandings you have of yourself and what makes you tick. 

So this leaves us in the present, where a 3 (or 5-part series) of IF I MOVED BACK TO SYDNEY is born.  

This will be a highly focused and sincere read into a particular suburb’s culture, food, and energy. And why, if I moved back to Sydney, I would move there. We’ll uncover some local gems, those newly explored, and places dearly loved by those around me. 

I suppose you could say I’m writing a love letter to a place and a version of myself I romanticise I’d be. Lucky for you, I’m taking you along on the journey in the hope that you too can, just for a moment, envision where you’d like to visit, to live, and to experience… and why. 

Though I’m still not sure how I’ll split this saga (Suburb clusters? One suburb? One street!!!?) I hope you find it as amusing *and as torturing* as I do and maybe, just maybe, I might convince you to move here too!

Marrickville Guide: Getting to Know the Suburb

Oh, how stereotypical of me to start off with Marrickville Sydney… yes I know. But you see, Marrickville is where it all started for my family. So it seemed fitting that if I were to move back to live in Sydney, I would choose here as being one of the best places to live in Sydney. 

DISCLAIMER: these are not in order I am not taking sides…

Marrickville is an international oasis. Over recent years, there has been an influx of Vietnamese eateries and institutions that have made their presence and mark, but it is still very much rooted in a Mediterranean flare. It’s almost a 50/50 Split between Vietnamese and European cultures, and the food in Marrickville and grocery offerings are so diverse that you can find almost anything you desire.

Marrickville unapologetically embodies suburban life, and at times, dons a trendy city look. As you walk along Marrickville Road, you’ll witness elderly Greeks meandering with their blue plastic bags, having just emerged from the fish market or local deli, taking their time without a care in the world. As it should be. In contrast, the intersecting Illawarra Road showcases a vibrant Vietnamese cultural scene, where women bustle in and out of grocery shops and crowds gather to savour the best Pho or Pork rolls. 

What sets Marrickville apart is its extremely narrow streets, and as you go down one of its many parallels, you’re playing tips with the cars moving toward you, and after a little way, finally gaining stride and making it out the other end. This excites me. I wouldn’t change a thing. And if we did. It wouldn’t be Marrickville, would it?

This suburb boasts some of the best coffee in Syndey complimented by cafes of the same calibre. Pair that with some epic dessert shops and you’ve just hit the golden triangle.

Where to Eat In Marrickville 

Marrickville really is a haven for the food fanatic, caffeine craving, indulgent sweet tooth. It ticks all three boxes within a 5km radius and then some. If I were to live in Marrickville, I would probably never leave the suburb, I mean why would you when you have access to some of the best produce and eateries alike?

We can go into a comprehensive Marrickville food guide another time, but for the sake of keeping with the Nostalgia, this food list highlights the cafes, coffee spots, and restaurants, that the locals and I frequent heavily, and if I’ve been away for an extended period of time, find myself coming back to first.

There are also just some places in Marrickville you must visit to understand its origins and get an idea of what used to make it a favourite suburban destination in Sydney with a rich linguistic landscape (and still does).

Food in Marrickville

Two Chaps

A local institution that is housed within a converted warehouse. It is one of the very best cafes in Marrickville and it hasn’t dropped a beat over the last 7 or so years that I can remember. After returning from a year abroad, Two Chaps was our first stop back in Sydney, devouring some sourdough crumpets with a pumpkin puree, and biodynamic poached eggs..

You can always expect an array of delicious freshly baked goodies from Muffins, custard-filled doughnuts, and some of the best cookies and slices, all with a warm and welcome “Hey how are you going” when you enter. More than merely a café in the neighbourhood, Two Chaps is a vibrant space for culinary innovation and social connectivity within the community.

Illi Hill

Quaint Illi Hill. A corner cafe that feels like home. Another frequented local that still seems to be the buzz of the town. Funny enough, Illi Hill and Two Chaps are practically neighbours, but they boast a completely different vibe. Like many beloved venues in Marrickville, what originally occupied its premise had made a significant impression on Marrickville’s identity. Previously, a corner store that has been running for 47 years, you can see why this sun-drenched location is a pillar for serving the local community (and why it must uphold its status as just that).

The menu always celebrates fresh and seasonal produce, pieced together in curious combinations such as the Pink Avocado, where a beetroot hummus base with Zataar replaces your traditional avo smear, and let’s not forget the iconic Green Omelette blending Broccoli, peas, silverbeet, shallots with basil pesto.

Post Cafe

Where once a post office allowed people to communicate with one another, now lies the Post Cafe. Essentially, you’re still doing what was intended in the space, but with a beverage and snack on hand. The Post Cafe Marrickville has changed many hands over the years yet still stands strong. I suppose it’s because of its historic prevalence in Marrickville, perched monumentally along Marrickville Rd.

The cafe is open and spacious, sitting within the former Postal Hall. You can indulge in a diverse and delicious breakfast like the avo toast layered onto a bed of labneh or folded chilli scrambled eggs, which are complimented with the sweetness of caramelised onions.

Marrickville Pork Roll

I remember back when there was only one signpost for this institution we call Marrickville Pork Roll, however now, there are a few that have popped up. And it’s clear why… the people just can’t resist. The queue often stretches far beyond the street, but it is so worth it. As you bite into the crisp Banh Mi, filled with fresh and succulent Pork and an array of fresh herbs, you understand why this is a cult classic among locals and visitors alike.

On a balmy summer’s day, or at peak lunch break, there’s nothing else quite on your mind like a pillowy fresh white bread roll, buttered, and filled to the brim with your favourite filling of choice… is there?

Corinthian Rotisserie Restaurant

When you’re feeling like sailing into the Mediterranean sunset, or want to be acquainted with the hard and fast service that the Greeks are so good at delivering, then the Corinthian is for you. So many memories flood in when I think of this place, but most of them consist of several Meat Platters, a s*it tonne of Greek Salad, Taramasalata and bread. It’s where you go when you want to devour Grilled Meat or Traditional Baked Meals.

Gemista? Moussaka? Or maybe you’re more the tomato-based braised vegetable type with a sprinkle of feta and some lemon oregano chippies. You know it, I know it, it’s the Corinthian that’ll always scratch the itch. It’s easy, it’s simple. But it’s a key staple in Marrickville’s culture.

Hello Auntie

As we turn the corner onto Illawarra Road at the OG spot of Hello Auntie, here where you’ll devour some rich and flavourful contemporary Vietnamese cuisine. Hello Auntie was and is a staple when we want to drown in a big bowl of Pho, or taste the sweet and salty BANH XEO ( a type of thin crepe/pancake made of flour) that when it passes your lips you experience a slight tingle from the flavour frenzy.

The atmosphere is chaotic, bustling and bright. It is all action yet welcoming and accommodating. Grab a bunch of your mates for a feastful communal evening and experience a fusion of traditions where Vietnam meets Modern Australian influence. Hello Auntie epitomises the cultural diversity and eclectic food scene in Marrickville which is still deeply rooted in the suburbs’ culture. Don’t forget, #payyourauntieavisit!

Pepito’s

Going by the neighbourhood’s most “Rockin’ Taberna”, Pepito’s is dedicated to providing all who dare to visit a vibrant culinary journey through Peru and its rich cultural heritage. It is completely and utterly unpretentious, as the soft amber glow of the lights warms the space, and simple white tiled walls are adorned with vintage Spanish posters and photographs.

In the spirit of a Taberna, there’s nothing like sampling carefully curated Spanish wines while you journey through the menu starting at the Sanguches (Sliders), more namely the Pan Con Chicharron, and then transitioning to the Parilla (Grill) and devouring a succulent duck breast with pickled fennel, orange and amarillo butter. It is seriously some of the best food in Marrickville. Vamos!

Baba’s Place

The literal meaning is Grandma’s Place, in Macedonian. Baba’s Place is a restaurant that celebrates the rich and diverse Mediterranean upbringing, blending flavours from the Middle East, Greece, and Macedonia in a refined type of way. It is a place unafraid to push the boundaries and invent something completely new. I can’t get over their Foccacia or their Lebo Fillet O’fish Burgers. I’ve been here more than I can remember and it’s downright funky, has the Marrickville grunge feel, and welcomes you with a homegrown veggie patch, just like Baba’s.

Baba’s Place epitomises the second generation of Europeans. We like to feel sentimental and as one with our heritage, and with our grandparents, with all the super daggy and extremely European furnishes, architectural elements on their homes, or the china you would eat and drink from. Yet, it offers this modern sophistication to food and branding, where it pays homage to our roots without disregarding or overshadowing them, all while strutting a fresh and unique flair. It is my home away from home.

Pizza Madre

I have a love affair with Pizza Madre, it started quite some years ago and although we’ve drifted, the tie is still strong. Unlike other Italian pizza joints, Madre is completely meat-free (and you know what… I kind of prefer it). Think Shiitake mushrooms, charred onion puree, baby spinach, gruyere, hazelnut and a drizzle of sesame oil. Not to boast, but Pizza Madre also offers a selection of Australian natural wines. This cultural amalgamation represents the true essence of Marrickville culture.

Sinking your teeth into a crusty and pillowy-crusted Sourdough Pizza and enjoying a crisp beverage is a winner in my books. With a commitment to quality and seasonal ingredients, and a well-tuned and vibey atmosphere, it’s a wonder Pizza Madre is a cult favourite in the hood.

A Day In The Life: The Best Coffee In Marrickville

There surely isn’t a better place in Sydney to get the best coffee. As a self-proclaimed coffee enthusiast, Marrickville is home to some of my favourite coffee roasters. Their offer and roasting style differ, and each venue will provide you with an experience unique to that of the roaster, dictating how they prefer you to enjoy your hot (or cold) brews.

Deluca Coffee

A Light-filled, rectangular-orientated interior with white painted brick walls and light timber oak joinery and furniture. Deluca is clean and crisp, offering a real sense of calm, the antidote you need for the chaos of the day ahead. I will more often than not start my day here, getting some early morning work in while I sip on a carefully brewed long black which showcases a rotating single-origin bean. The roasting style is light, yet complex. My favourite coffee boasts notes of honey, caramel and bergamot.

Ona

Ona is a coffee experience like no other, with a curated menu of some of the most celebrated and rare single-origin beans. Ona’s newly renovated and open spot is moody, with curved brick walls and a dual high-top bench seating zone that gives off high-end sushi train vibes. Pulling up a seat, and sipping curiously on an espresso, you’re instantly transported into a vortex where the primary focus is the bean and what it can offer, broadening your understanding of the cherished drink. Ona seriously is some of the best coffee in Sydney.

Coffee Alchemy

By midday, after making the run around Marrickville and picking up a sourdough loaf from Brickfields, *iykyk* Coffee Alchemy is next on the list. It is an institution when it comes to the best coffee in Marrickville and it serves some killer specialty coffee, frequently resulting in subtle floral notes. The Barista’s here are knowledgeable and always willing to entertain a conversation about the coffee origin. Although Coffee Alchemy has shifted from its OG location, I still recall the times I travelled far and wide for a superb spro (espresso).

Double Roasters

With an uninterrupted view of Wicks Park, Double Roasters flagship store in Marrickville serves up a wicked brew. I tend to change my order depending on where I end up, so a cold brew goes down a treat here. It’s refreshing and full-bodied, with an everlasting sweetness that remains on the tongue. As you work into a white-washed industrial-style fit-out, with greenery flanking the walls, you’re welcomed by the team who are friendly and as crazy about coffee as you.

Caffeine Obsessed Is An Understatement – Best Coffee In Marrickville

My Sweet Serenade

Marrickville has gone through its changes over the years, beginning from the time my family migrated there and tried to make a home out of a foreign place, to migrants leaving their mark and transforming the suburb into an international oasis where traditions were respected and celebrated, to now an urbanised suburb full of trendy cafes, specialty coffee and contemporary cuisine.

One of the best places to live in Sydney is where tradition and trend harmoniously coexist, and where every corner tells a story. This Marrickville guide is a testament to the diverse and eclectic neighbourhood that continues to be a home for thriving creatives, culinary entrepreneurs, and extended family. It is a place I would love to live in, whether briefly or for a while.

If you could move anywhere in the world, where would you go? No dream is too big or too small, though I am eager for you to share these with me… You see, sometimes all it takes is a little encouragement to take the leap of faith you have been longing for.

The food in Marrickville is enough to sell me any day of the week, and I’m sure you can agree. The location is convenient, yet still so utterly suburban. It is the hub for all things cooky.

If I moved back to Sydney, you know where you’ll find me. I guess I’ll be seeing you in Marrickville then?